New Delhi: China has launched its first amphibious assault ship, the Type 075A marking a new era for China’s warship development, Chinese military experts said.

The vessel which is described as small aircraft carrier by its appearance, is an amphibious assault ship having a straight flight deck capable of hosting helicopters, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft and short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft, as well as cabins that can hold amphibious tanks, armoured vehicles and air-cushioned landing craft (LCAC).

The launch ceremony was held on September 25 in Shanghai, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

The warship will see further equipment adjustments and sea trials before its commissioning, according to the report.

An amphibious assault ship is the second complex warship built by China, after its aircraft carrier. The immense design, construction and cost allow only a few countries including France and Japan to develop such a warship, an expert said.

The Type 075 has an estimated displacement of 40,000 tons, a length of 250 meters, a width of 30 meters, a draft of 8.5 meters, and a speed of 23 knots, US-based media outlet the National Interest reported in May. This makes the Chinese ship comparable to the US’ Wasp-class amphibious assault ship.